Surfshark vs ExpressVPN: Which VPN is right for you?

Finding the right VPN can be a game-changer for your online security and privacy. With cyber threats constantly evolving, a reliable VPN can protect your data, secure your internet connection, and even unlock geo-restricted content. But choosing the best VPN for your needs can be as daunting as navigating a maze. Numerous VPN services are available, each offering different features and benefits.

In this article, we compare two of the most popular VPN services—Surfshark vs ExpressVPN. We delve into their features, real-world performance, and key differences to help you decide which VPN best suits your needs. Let’s start with an overview of these two industry-leading solutions.

Surfshark and ExpressVPN are two prominent contenders in IT security software and VPNs, each offering a distinct set of features designed to cater to different user requirements.

Surfshark is known for its budget-friendly pricing and extensive feature set, including unlimited device connections, robust security protocols, and specialized tools like CleanWeb for ad-blocking and malware protection. On the other hand, ExpressVPN is celebrated for its exceptional speed, reliability, and top-tier encryption standards. With a reputation for consistently high performance and a vast network of servers across numerous countries, ExpressVPN is a preferred choice for users who prioritize speed and seamless streaming experiences, especially when accessing geo-restricted content.

Now, let's dive into the Surfshark vs. ExpressVPN comparison to help you make an informed decision when selecting the right VPN for your security, privacy, and online needs.

Surfshark and ExpressVPN are two leading VPN services that cater to a broad range of users, offering strong privacy protections and secure internet browsing. While they share common functionalities such as military-grade encryption, no-logs policies, and support for various devices, their strengths and differences make them suitable for distinct user needs.

Surfshark stands out with its affordability and feature-packed offerings. It provides unlimited device connections under a single subscription, making it a top choice for families or users with multiple devices. Surfshark also includes extra features like CleanWeb, which blocks ads, trackers, and malware, as well as MultiHop, which allows you to route your internet traffic through multiple countries for added security. Its interface is user-friendly, and despite its competitive pricing, Surfshark doesn’t compromise on security or speed, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious users who still want a robust VPN experience.

In contrast, ExpressVPN is renowned for its superior speed and reliability. It consistently ranks among the fastest VPNs available, making it ideal for users who prioritize seamless streaming, gaming, or downloading large files. ExpressVPN operates a large network of servers across 90+ countries, providing extensive options for bypassing geo-restrictions and accessing global content. The service also includes advanced features like TrustedServer technology, which ensures all data is wiped with each reboot, enhancing user privacy. While ExpressVPN is more expensive than Surfshark, its focus on high performance and advanced security features justifies the premium price for users who demand the best in speed and reliability.

The right choice between Surfshark and ExpressVPN depends on your specific needs. Surfshark is perfect for those looking for a cost-effective solution with rich features, while ExpressVPN is better suited for users who need top-tier performance and a wide server network.

• Unlimited device connections: Surfshark allows you to connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously under a single subscription, making it ideal for households with multiple users or individuals with many devices.
• Affordable pricing: Surfshark is known for its competitive pricing, offering a feature-rich VPN service at a lower cost compared to many competitors, making it a great value for money.
• Advanced security features: Surfshark includes robust security features such as CleanWeb (ad and tracker blocking), MultiHop (double VPN), and a strict no-logs policy, providing comprehensive online protection.
• User-friendly interface: The Surfshark app is easy to navigate and set up, making it accessible even for VPN beginners. It’s available on a wide range of platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and more.
• Effective geo-unblocking: Surfshark is highly effective at bypassing geo-restrictions, allowing users to access content from various streaming platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu across different regions.

• Inconsistent speeds: While Surfshark generally offers decent speeds, users may experience inconsistencies depending on the server location, especially during peak times.
• Smaller server network: Surfshark has a smaller server network compared to some competitors like ExpressVPN, which may lead to occasional overcrowding and slower connections on certain servers.
• Limited split tunneling on macOS: Surfshark’s split tunneling feature, known as “Whitelister,” is not available on macOS, limiting its functionality for users on this platform.
• Occasional connection drops: Some users report occasional connection drops, requiring them to manually reconnect to the VPN, which can be inconvenient during important activities.
• No dedicated IP option: Surfshark doesn’t offer the option to purchase a dedicated IP address, which might be a downside for users who need a consistent IP address for certain online activities.

• Exceptional speed and performance: ExpressVPN is consistently one of the fastest VPNs available, making it ideal for streaming, gaming, and downloading large files without noticeable lag or buffering.
• Wide server network: ExpressVPN operates a vast network of over 3,000 servers across 94 countries, providing extensive options for users to bypass geo-restrictions and access global content.
• Top-notch security features: ExpressVPN offers robust security measures, including military-grade encryption, TrustedServer technology (which ensures that all servers run on RAM only, wiping data with every reboot), and a strict no-logs policy, ensuring maximum privacy.
• Reliable geo-unblocking: ExpressVPN is highly effective at unblocking streaming services like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and more, allowing users to access content from different regions with ease.
• Excellent customer support: ExpressVPN offers 24/7 customer support through live chat and email, with knowledgeable agents who can quickly assist with any issues or questions.

• Higher cost: ExpressVPN is more expensive compared to many other VPN services, which might be a downside for budget-conscious users seeking a more affordable solution.
• Limited device connections: ExpressVPN allows only up to five simultaneous device connections per subscription, which may be limiting for users with many devices or larger households.
• No built-in ad blocker: Unlike some competitors, ExpressVPN does not include a built-in ad blocker, which means users may need to rely on separate tools to block ads and trackers.
• Lack of advanced customization: ExpressVPN’s user interface is designed for simplicity, which may not appeal to advanced users looking for more granular control and customization options.
• No free trial: ExpressVPN does not offer a free trial (although it does have a 30-day money-back guarantee), which might deter potential users who want to test the service without committing to a purchase.

Surfshark offers an affordable and feature-rich VPN service, making it a strong contender for budget-conscious users. It provides unlimited device connections and advanced security features like CleanWeb and MultiHop. However, its server network is smaller and its speeds can be inconsistent compared to ExpressVPN. 

ExpressVPN, on the other hand, excels in speed, reliability, and has a broader server network across 94 countries. While it comes at a higher cost, ExpressVPN is preferred by users who prioritize top-tier performance and seamless access to geo-restricted content, making it ideal for streaming and high-demand activities.

Whether Surfshark is better than ExpressVPN depends on your specific needs. Surfshark is an excellent choice for those seeking a budget-friendly VPN with unlimited device connections and robust security features. It’s particularly appealing for users who value affordability without sacrificing essential functionality. 

However, if speed, reliability, and a broader server network are your top priorities, ExpressVPN stands out as the superior option. Its higher price reflects its premium service, making it ideal for users who require consistent, fast connections and seamless access to global content, especially for streaming and other high-demand online activities.

Surfshark is best used for providing comprehensive online security and privacy at an affordable price. It excels in protecting users across multiple devices, thanks to its unlimited device connections under a single subscription. Surfshark is particularly effective for bypassing geo-restrictions, making it a popular choice for streaming content from platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. 

Additionally, its advanced features, such as CleanWeb for ad and malware blocking, and MultiHop for enhanced anonymity, make it ideal for users seeking robust protection against online threats while maintaining access to global content without compromising speed or security.

Surfshark can be a viable replacement for ExpressVPN, particularly for users seeking a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing essential features. While ExpressVPN is known for its superior speed, reliability, and extensive server network, Surfshark offers strong security, unlimited device connections, and effective geo-unblocking capabilities at a lower cost. 

However, users who prioritize top-tier performance, especially in terms of speed and server variety, may still prefer ExpressVPN. For most everyday users, Surfshark provides a compelling alternative with its rich feature set and competitive pricing, making it a strong contender to replace ExpressVPN in many scenarios.

Yes, Surfshark’s pricing is significantly cheaper than ExpressVPN, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious users. Surfshark offers lower pricing plans while still providing a comprehensive set of features, including unlimited device connections, robust security measures, and effective geo-unblocking capabilities. 

Despite its more affordable cost, Surfshark does not compromise on essential functions, offering a solid VPN service at a fraction of the price of ExpressVPN. This cost-effectiveness makes Surfshark a popular choice for users who want reliable online protection and privacy without the higher price tag associated with premium services like ExpressVPN.

When considering VPN services, it's important to explore whether there might be a more suitable option than Surfshark for your specific needs.

Some notable alternatives to Surfshark include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, CyberGhost, and ProtonVPN. These VPNs offer various strengths, such as faster speeds, more extensive server networks, or specialized security features.

The best VPN choice depends on your unique requirements, such as the need for ultra-fast streaming, advanced privacy features, or global server coverage. While Surfshark offers a compelling balance of affordability and features, other VPNs may provide superior performance, specialized security options, or broader server access that better aligns with your online security strategy.

ExpressVPN is a premium VPN service known for its exceptional speed, reliability, and extensive server network across 94 countries, making it ideal for users who prioritize seamless streaming, gaming, and accessing global content. 

In comparison, Surfshark offers a more budget-friendly alternative with features like unlimited device connections and robust security tools, though it has a smaller server network and occasionally inconsistent speeds. While Surfshark provides excellent value, ExpressVPN’s superior performance and advanced features justify its higher cost for users seeking the best possible VPN experience, particularly for high-demand activities and consistent, fast connections.

ExpressVPN is often considered better than Surfshark for users who prioritize top-tier performance and a vast server network. Its consistent speeds and reliability make it an excellent choice for streaming, gaming, and accessing geo-restricted content without interruptions. 

While Surfshark offers a strong feature set at a lower cost, ExpressVPN’s advanced security features, such as TrustedServer technology, and its ability to deliver fast, stable connections across a broader range of locations justify the higher price. For users who demand the highest quality VPN experience, particularly for intensive online activities, ExpressVPN is typically the preferred option.

ExpressVPN is best used for providing top-tier online privacy, security, and performance, making it an ideal choice for users who need fast and reliable VPN connections. It excels in bypassing geo-restrictions, allowing access to a wide range of streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer from anywhere in the world. 

With its extensive server network across 94 countries and advanced security features, ExpressVPN is also well-suited for secure browsing, protecting sensitive data on public Wi-Fi, and ensuring anonymity online. Its consistent speed and reliability make it a preferred option for gaming, streaming, and other high-demand online activities.

ExpressVPN can replace Surfshark, particularly for users who prioritize speed, reliability, and an extensive server network. While Surfshark offers excellent value with features like unlimited device connections and competitive pricing, ExpressVPN provides superior performance, making it ideal for activities such as streaming, gaming, and accessing geo-restricted content. 

Additionally, ExpressVPN's advanced security features and broader server coverage offer enhanced privacy and more consistent connections. However, ExpressVPN comes at a higher cost, so users looking for a more affordable option with solid features may still prefer Surfshark. ExpressVPN is a robust alternative for those seeking top-tier VPN performance.

No, ExpressVPN’s pricing is not cheaper than Surfshark. ExpressVPN is considered a premium VPN service and comes with a higher price tag, reflecting its superior speed, reliability, and extensive server network. In contrast, Surfshark is known for its affordability, offering a lower-cost alternative without sacrificing essential features like strong security, unlimited device connections, and effective geo-unblocking. 

While ExpressVPN justifies its higher cost with top-tier performance and advanced features, Surfshark remains the more budget-friendly option, making it a popular choice for users seeking a comprehensive VPN service at a lower price point.

When considering alternatives to ExpressVPN, it's essential to explore whether there might be a more suitable VPN service for your specific needs.

Some notable alternatives to ExpressVPN in the VPN space include Surfshark, hide.me VPN, Atlas VPN, and IPVanish.

The choice of VPN service depends on your unique objectives, such as speed, privacy features, server network, and budget. While ExpressVPN offers exceptional speed, reliability, and a broad server network, other VPNs may excel in areas like affordability, additional security features, or specialized server configurations. Evaluating these factors can help you determine if another VPN service might better align with your online privacy and security requirements.

Surfshark and ExpressVPN are both well-designed software, but when it comes to ease of use, Surfshark takes the lead. Surfshark’s clean and intuitive interface makes it exceptionally simple for users of any skill level to navigate. The one-click connect feature is particularly user-friendly, allowing you to instantly connect to the fastest server available with minimal effort. This simplicity is ideal for beginners or those who want a hassle-free VPN experience. 

On the other hand, ExpressVPN, while offering high-quality service, can appear more complex, especially to those who aren’t tech-savvy. Its interface, though sleek and polished, is packed with features that may feel overwhelming to first-time users, such as split tunneling and multiple protocol options, which require more understanding to utilize effectively.

When it comes to integrations, ExpressVPN clearly outshines Surfshark. ExpressVPN has made significant efforts to ensure its software integrates seamlessly with a wide range of devices and platforms. It supports all major operating systems, including Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Linux, and extends its compatibility to routers, which allows users to protect all devices connected to their home network. Additionally, ExpressVPN offers browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox and even works with smart TVs and gaming software like PlayStation and Xbox. 

While Surfshark also covers the standard integrations, including popular operating systems and browser extensions, it doesn’t offer the same breadth of integration options, particularly for less common devices. If integration versatility across a broad range of devices is a top priority, ExpressVPN clearly has the advantage.

While both Surfshark and ExpressVPN provide a secure and private browsing experience, Surfshark shines with its robust integrated antivirus protection. Surfshark goes beyond typical VPN security by offering real-time protection against malware, ransomware, phishing attacks, and other online threats. This integrated antivirus feature continuously monitors your device, blocking harmful software before it can cause damage. For example, Surfshark’s CleanWeb feature not only blocks ads but also prevents access to malicious websites, enhancing your overall security. 

In contrast, ExpressVPN does not include built-in antivirus protection, meaning users must rely on third-party solutions to secure their devices against malware and other cyber threats. This makes Surfshark a more comprehensive option for users seeking both VPN and antivirus protection in one package.

One of the prominent advantages of ExpressVPN is its ultra-fast servers, strategically located in 94 countries. This extensive global network ensures users can maintain a stable and swift internet connection, making it ideal for high-bandwidth activities like streaming 4K content, downloading large files, and browsing without any lag or buffering. For instance, users streaming Netflix or gaming online can rely on ExpressVPN for a seamless experience. 

On the other hand, Surfshark, while offering ad-free browsing through its CleanWeb feature for potentially faster loading times, does not provide specific details about the speed of its servers. This lack of transparency might leave some users uncertain about Surfshark’s performance compared to the consistently high speeds guaranteed by ExpressVPN.

Surfshark’s Alternative ID feature sets it apart from ExpressVPN by offering users an innovative way to further protect their online identities. This feature allows users to generate new, temporary online identities, including randomized email addresses and personal information, providing an additional layer of security and privacy. This is particularly useful for signing up for services or websites that require personal information, ensuring your real identity remains protected from potential data breaches or targeted advertising. 

In contrast, ExpressVPN focuses on its strict no-logs policy to maintain user privacy, ensuring that none of your online activities are recorded or stored. However, it does not offer a comparable feature to Surfshark’s Alternative ID, making Surfshark a compelling choice for users who prioritize enhanced anonymity and identity protection in their online activities.

ExpressVPN stands out for its extensive multi-platform support, offering user-friendly apps for a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, computers, routers, and even smart TVs. This broad compatibility ensures that you can seamlessly protect all your devices with a single subscription, making it especially convenient for users with diverse tech ecosystems. For example, ExpressVPN’s router app is particularly valuable for securing your entire home network, covering every connected device without needing separate installations. 

While Surfshark also provides a robust VPN service with apps for major platforms, it doesn’t emphasize the same level of comprehensive multi-platform support, making ExpressVPN a superior choice for users who require consistent, cross-device protection.

Both Surfshark and ExpressVPN prioritize user security by implementing high-level encryption standards, ensuring that your online activities remain private and protected. Surfshark’s VPN service uses AES-256-GCM encryption, a highly secure encryption standard that guards against eavesdroppers and hackers, keeping your sensitive information, such as passwords and personal data, safe from potential threats. This level of security is essential for activities like online banking or accessing sensitive information on public Wi-Fi networks. 

Similarly, ExpressVPN employs military-grade AES-256 encryption, widely regarded as the gold standard in data protection. This encryption, combined with ExpressVPN's TrustedServer technology, ensures that your data remains completely secure and private, whether you're browsing, streaming, or downloading. Both services deliver robust encryption, making them reliable choices for users seeking top-tier online security.